A visit to the Kybeyan State Conservation Area close to the winter solstice had a high risk of being a foggy, frosty affair – or worse. As it turned out it was a lovely clear day, cold but with brief bursts of sunshine. Seven of us drove out through Numeralla to the Kybeyan SCA, parking at the base of Mt Pleasant.
The steep 200m (vertical) climb to Mt Pleasant soon had us warmed up. Good views of the Monaro, including the brothers, were to be had but unfortunately views to the main range were marred by low cloud. The closer scenery was glorious. Narrow rocky ridges with a healthy eucalypt forest. Although the undergrowth was very sparse, and with no grass, it soon became apparent this was its natural healthy state. An added bonus was that it made for easy walking.
From Mt Pleasant we soon came across a large patch of stunted casuarina ‘nana heathland’. Banksias were also in abundance in this heathland area. More patches of this heath were found later in the walk. We then followed the rocky ridges, gradually descending to the Kybeyan River. This whole area has escaped the scourge of fires that in recent years have affected so much of the Monaro/Snowy Mountains area. Consequently, on the river flats were some glorious stands of large ribbon gums whose hanging bark clearly marked this lack of fire. After following the river upstream for a kilometre or so lunch was enjoyed by a large pool that would have made for a nice swim in the middle of summer. Not today.
We could have spent days on the return trip checking out the large variety of flora, many different fungi and lichens, and evidence of fauna (including koalas). Alas, no such luxury today (but we did our best). Many lyrebirds were to be heard, and several seen – one from very close quarters with a gorgeous tail display. Eagles too showed off for us.
There was general agreement this was a great walk and is to be highly recommended. Great views, large variety of flora, lovely rocky outcrops, easy walking with sparse undergrowth. There must be a return visit when more flowers are likely to be out.